Mancini believes that a combination of hypnosis and counselling will do the trick after being told by medical staff that Balotelli’s smoking could have worsened his recent eye problems.

A club source told the Daily Star: “Mario has caused a stir again, this time because they say the smoke coming from his fags is making his eye condition even worse.

“Everyone is aware of Mario’s habit but after a conversation with the manager last season, it was thought he had cut down.

“It cannot be considered a quirk anymore, especially now he is going to miss training and potentially a couple of matches. He is lacking match fitness as it is following his extended break due to Euro 2012.

“All options are on the table to help Mario give up smoking altogether – counselling and even hypnotherapy.”